8th February 2024

Large intestine

The large intestine is the site of water reabsorption, digestion of chyme by bacterial intestines and formation and storage of faeces. It also acts as the site of vitamin K absorption, as the enteric bacteria produce this. 

Its motility is stimulated by parasympathetic stimulation, CCK, drugs (cholinergic, laxatives) and the gastrocolic reflex (food in the stomach increases motility and mass movement in the colon). Anticholinergics and sympathetic stimulation inhibit it.